Installing a Booster Pump on a Reverse Osmosis System - BRStv How-To
Low water pressure feeding a reverse osmosis system can cause poor water production and even low water quality. If you are feeding your membrane with less pressure than the specified amount by your particular membrane manufacturer, we highly suggest adding a booster pump.
The ideal operating pressure of your RO/DI system depends on the particular RO membrane your using and the typical range is 50 - 90 PSI. Anything less than 35 PSI is considered sub-par and will most certainly affect the performance of your RO membrane. Water pressure can be measured using the pressure gauge installed on your RO/DI system.
Booster pumps can be installed almost anywhere before your RO membrane and if you use a float valve to turn off your RODI system, a pressure switch can be employed to automatically turn your booster pump on and off when the RO system is making water.
Installing a booster pump is easy and requires minimal tools to plumb into your existing RO/DI reverse osmosis filter system. These instructions are specific to the AquaTec Booster Pump Kit that comes with the power supply and pressure switch. The AquaTec pump works great with our BRS Reverse Osmosis Systems but is also widely compatible with most standard RO/DI systems.
Required Tools:
- RO tubing cutter or sharp razor blade
- Screwdriver for mounting
- Booster Pump Kit
How To Install a Booster Pump:
- Turn your source water off and relieve any built-up water pressure by opening your product water line until it runs dry.
- Determine the mounting location for the booster pump. The location should have a sturdy backing to attach the booster pump’s mounting plate, and it should be clear of any heat sources or possible water leaks. It is best to mount the pump vertically with the pump head facing upward to avoid trapping air. The pump is to be installed in line with your source water connection, before the RO/DI system. This allows the pump to INCREASE the water pressure being fed into your RO/DI system.
- Using an RO Tube Cutter or a sharp razor blade, cut the source water RO tubing (RED) where you will want to splice in the booster pump.
- Follow the flow direction arrows on the booster pump and connect it to your RO/DI system and source water. The source water line should be connected to the pump inlet and the RO/DI system should be connected to the pump outlet. The pump has push-fit still fittings which means you simply push the tubing into the fitting and gently pull back to ensure it is seated properly.
- The pressure switch is technically optional but is the best way to automate the use of your booster pump and is highly recommended. Installing the pressure switch can be anywhere on the product water line (BLUE) coming out of the membrane after the Auto Shut Off Valve (ASO). The easiest location is after the DI stage (if you have one) on the product water line.
- Use a tube cutter or razor blade to cut the tubing and splice in the pressure switch, making sure that the wiring from the booster pump can reach the pressure switch location. Note: Without the pressure switch, the pump will need to be manually operated.
- Connect one of the open wiring pigtails on the switch to the booster pump's Molex style connector, and the other Molex connector to the power supply.
- Turn on the source water slowly and check for any leaks. Most leaks can be fixed by ensuring the RO tubing is fully seated into the push connect fitting and that the cut is clean and square to the tubing.
- Plug the booster pump's transformer into a US-style wall outlet and observe the water pressure using your pressure gauge. Most reverse osmosis systems can handle 90+ PSI, however, please consult your manufacturer's specifications. If your pressure is too high, it can be lowered by turning the bypass screw located on the head of the booster pump.
Pressure Adjustment - Aquatech booster pumps have a small Allen screw on the head of the pump that can be used to decrease the pressure output of the pump. If the water pressure at the membrane exceeds 90 PSI it is a good idea to reduce that pressure so as not to put too much stress on the RO tubing connections and canisters. The ideal operating pressure is 75 - 85 PSI for many common RO membranes.
Shut-Off Adjustment - In most cases, the factory pressure sensitivity setting on the pressure switch will be appropriate. If the booster pump fails to shut off after your auto shut off valve has activated it may be necessary to adjust the pressure setting via the small screw on the switch.
With over 25 years of experience keeping aquariums of all kinds, Robert has a detailed understanding of advanced aquarium techniques and theory. Working as a professional content creator in the saltwater aquarium industry for over 18 years, his perspective, thoughtfulness for the hobbyist, and a general understanding of the hobby, and industry that surrounds it, allows Robert to write and create digestible content that makes reefing fun and easy.
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